Early Model 99 in 30-30

[Val]

I took my Model 99 in 30-30 to the range for the first time. According to an internet site, based on the serial number, this rifle was manufactured in 1921. It has a weaver 330 scope on it that was probably mounted in the 1930s. I just arbitrarily loaded up some rounds using 32.3 grains of IMR 4064. I noticed a slight backing out of the primers with this load so I will lighten the load and shoot some more. If the rifle has a minor headspacing problem is there a fix for it? I also had a problem with adjusting the weaver scope. Small adjustments on the knobs resulted in pretty large changes in POI. I'll have to play with the scope some more and try and figure out what's going on. I did shoot one three shot group at 100 yards that measured 2"

I'm going to drop the load a grain or two and shoot some more. I may even try some loads below max with another powder.

[Siskiyou]

I checked a couple of manuals and 32.3 grains is maximum in one and 32.2 grains of IMR4064 is maximum in the other.  With the primers setting back a little I would drop back a couple of grains.   You may have exceeded safe maximum in your rifle, and it is not a headspace problem.

The assumption is that you started at max and did not work up to it?

[Val]

I used the load that works in my model 94 that was manufactured in 1935. My reasoning was that the model 99 is a stronger action. The primer backup was pretty minor and I did back down. With that 2 1/2 power Weaver scope I have some problem seeing the target at 100 yards in my club underground shooting tunnel. The light is not as good as outdoors and the reticle on the old Weaver is pretty thin. I am getting 1 1/2 to 2" three shot groups which is good enough for 100 yard or less for deer or pig. If I changed the scope out to a more modern higher mag scope I think I would be in the MOA area with this old classic.

[Siskiyou]

I have three 270 Winchester’s that I have been loading for years.  A load I had been firing for years in one caused a sticky bolt in the second one.  I was a little bit surprised and reduced the charge for all of them.

I loaded Remington and Hornady bullets for years.  When I introduced Nosler solid base, and Sierra boattails I had to reduce the powder charge .5-grains.